Ash Wednesday

Celebrated 46 days before Easter.

Ash Wednesday is the first day of Lent, the 40-day period before Easter, and you will see that many Mexican Catholics wear the small cross drawn with ash on their forehead throughout the day. These 40 days are meant to symbolize the time Jesus spent fasting in the desert. The ashes are made from old catechisms and readings given at Mass and have been blessed by a priest. Many Catholics do not eat meat on Fridays during Lent; therefore, butchers are often closed on Fridays during this time as well. Fish and shrimp are commonly eaten instead. Another traditional food during Lent is capirotada, a unique bread pudding. Click here if you'd like to learn more about this delicious dessert and make it yourself.